Epidural injection
An epidural injection is a spinal injection used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain affecting the lower back and legs, often caused by nerve irritation or compression.
It is commonly used for conditions such as sciatica and spinal stenosis and may form part of a wider non-surgical treatment plan.
AT A GLANCE
- Injection delivered into the epidural space around spinal nerves
- Used for lower back pain and leg symptoms such as sciatica
- Helps reduce inflammation and nerve irritation
- Can provide temporary symptom relief
- Usually performed as a day-case procedure
Understanding epidural injection
Targeted treatment for lower back and leg pain
An epidural injection delivers anti-inflammatory medication into the epidural space around the spinal nerves in the lower back.
This area can become inflamed due to conditions such as a slipped disc or spinal stenosis, leading to pain that may travel into the buttock or leg.
At Total Spine Health, epidural injections are used to help reduce inflammation, relieve symptoms and support recovery as part of a wider treatment approach. They may also help patients progress with physiotherapy or avoid more invasive treatment where possible.
What is an epidural injection?
Delivering medication around spinal nerves
An epidural injection involves placing medication into the space surrounding the spinal nerves in the lower back.
The injection usually contains a steroid to reduce inflammation and sometimes a local anaesthetic to provide temporary pain relief.
By targeting this space, the treatment can reduce irritation affecting multiple nerves, particularly in conditions where pain spreads into the leg.
When this treatment may be used
Situations where an epidural injection may be appropriate
Epidural injections are often used when symptoms suggest irritation of one or more spinal nerves.
- sciatica causing leg pain
- lower back pain with nerve-related symptoms
- spinal stenosis affecting walking or standing
- numbness or tingling in the leg
- symptoms not improving with physiotherapy or medication
- pain limiting daily activity or sleep
They are often used as part of a step-by-step treatment plan.
CONDITIONS TREATED
Spinal conditions where epidural injections may be used
Epidural injections are commonly used in conditions affecting the lower back where nerve inflammation is contributing to symptoms.
When an epidural injection may be considered
When this treatment becomes part of management
Epidural injections are usually considered when symptoms have not improved with initial treatment such as physiotherapy, activity modification and medication.
They may also be used to help patients manage symptoms while continuing rehabilitation.
- pain persists despite non-surgical treatment
- nerve-related symptoms are affecting daily life
- imaging suggests inflammation or nerve irritation
- symptoms are limiting mobility or sleep
- pain is preventing progress with rehabilitation
- further treatment is being considered
ASSESSMENT AND SURGICAL PLANNING
Careful assessment before injection is recommended
Before recommending an epidural injection, a detailed assessment is carried out to ensure the treatment is appropriate.
This helps confirm that symptoms are likely to respond to this type of injection and that the correct area is targeted.
- review of symptoms and their pattern
- physical examination and nerve assessment
- review of MRI or other imaging
- identification of the affected region
- discussion of expected benefits and limitations
- consideration of alternative treatments
PROCEDURES AND TECHNIQUES
How an epidural injection is performed
Epidural injections are usually performed as a day-case procedure in a controlled clinical environment, using imaging guidance to ensure accurate placement of the medication.
The needle is placed using X-ray guidance to ensure accurate positioning within the epidural space.
The skin and surrounding tissues are numbed to improve comfort during the procedure.
Anti-inflammatory medication is delivered to reduce irritation around the nerves.
The injection is typically performed without the need for an overnight stay.
Patients are observed briefly afterwards before returning home.
Recovery after epidural injection
What to expect after the procedure
Recovery after an epidural injection is usually straightforward. Some patients may experience temporary relief from the local anaesthetic before the steroid begins to take effect.
The full benefit may take several days to develop.
- mild soreness at the injection site may occur
- temporary relief from local anaesthetic is common
- steroid effect develops over several days
- gradual return to normal activity is encouraged
- follow-up may be arranged to assess response
- further treatment may be considered if needed
The response to the injection can help guide the next stage of treatment.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions about epidural injections
Is the injection painful?
Some discomfort may be felt, but the procedure is usually well tolerated with local anaesthetic.
How long does it last?
Relief varies. Some patients experience weeks or months of improvement, while others may have a shorter response.
Is it a cure?
No, it is designed to reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms rather than cure the underlying condition.
Are there risks?
Risks are generally low but can include infection, bleeding or temporary worsening of symptoms.
Can the injection be repeated?
In some cases, injections may be repeated as part of an overall treatment plan.
RELATED CONDITIONS
Conditions linked with minimally invasive surgery
- Sciatica
- Slipped disc
- Spinal stenosis
- Degenerative disc disease
